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Frances Barber

Yes she is back rush to get your tickets Frances Barber is revising her role as Billie Trix in MUSIK . Here is a chance to read an old interview https://wiltons.org.uk/whats-on/musik/?utm_medium=paid&utm_source=fb&utm_id=6738324614492&utm_content=6738324614292&utm_term=6738324614092&utm_campaign=6738324614492&fbclid=IwY2xjawKUYcBleHRuA2FlbQEwAGFkaWQAAAYhAiaT7GJyaWQRMDdFa3VNSUZiVFhDUFg2WUwBHtxZTOefyfQEcI2Tp_6T4ceeeAYF9pywZrnuZVjMu8IhMckfz19pVQ_-lduT_aem_AxBADBFBU3XzTe2Bkfq9Tw

Frances Barber Talks to Steven Smith

A true gay icon blows into town this October with her one-woman show. No, I’m not talking about Madonna — this icon of the stage won’t charge you hundreds to see her and will be on time. Frances Barber will be reviving her role as Billie Trix, the washed-up, drug-taking pop star who will have you howling with laughter. Steven Smith chats with Frances ahead of the show.

You appeared in ‘Closer to Heaven’ at the Arts Theatre in 2001, written by Jonathan Harvey with music by the Pet Shop Boys. It’s said that ‘MUSIK’ was written especially for you. How did you get together, and what makes the collaboration work so well?

It seems like yesterday that Closer to Heaven opened to savage reviews. It was ahead of its time — the critics just didn’t know what to make of it. Most of them had no idea about clubs like Heaven or the gay scene and drug culture. But one thing they did take to was Billie Trix, the washed-up, drug-taking German singer I was lucky enough to play.

Jonathan Harvey is a brilliant writer, and the Pet Shop Boys’ music is superb. It’s been 19 years since the show opened and we’ve remained friends. One night at dinner we just said, “We have to do it.” We’re all passionate about what we do, so it works well.

I was lucky enough to see ‘MUSIK’ the first time around — it was simply genius! What were your musical influences growing up, and what about now?

Well, you might be surprised by how eclectic my taste is. Being one of six children, I had diverse music coming at me from all angles. My older siblings were into Eric Clapton, Cream and The Beatles, while Mum and Dad liked Sinatra and Shirley Bassey. My mum would’ve been bowled over if she’d seen me at her 80th birthday!

For me, Northern Soul, Punk, and David Bowie’s Aladdin Sane were huge influences.

If you had actually met Andy Warhol, what two questions would you have asked him?

Oh gosh! First, how did he come up with the idea for the Campbell’s soup images? Was he under the weather, opened a tin, and thought, “Here’s an idea”?

And second, the obsession he seemed to have with Marilyn — the four images he created: victim, survivor, manipulator, glamour. I’ve always wondered what he really thought of her.

Your character in ‘MUSIK’, Billie Trix, transitions from music to art. If you could spend one day at any gallery in the world, where would it be? Whose artwork do you find most inspiring?

To be straight with you, I’m not an art connoisseur myself. I just know what I like, and I enjoy going to galleries and looking at art. The Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam is one of my favourites — the lighting there is beautiful, and The Night Watch is so powerful.

Peter Greenaway brings art to his films in so many ways, but it’s his lighting that’s truly magical. Filming A Zed & Two Noughts was just a beautiful experience.

Billie Trix amusingly appears to inhale half of Peru during the show! Drugs are increasingly prevalent in the UK and LGBTQ+ party community — especially ‘Ket’ and ‘GHB’, which are sadly linked to deaths. Do you think ‘MUSIK’ will spark conversations about drug use or glamorise it? Is there enough public information about these newer drugs?

Look, what people do is none of my business — we’re all grown-ups and live our lives. But yes, this new trend does worry me, especially for young people. I only became aware of chem-sex parties while I was working in LA.

People can do what they like, but when you read that someone has raped over 170 people using one of these popular drugs, you really think: it’s time for more education and awareness.

You’re a gay icon and also a passionate supporter of LGBTQ+ rights. Are you concerned that these rights might be affected by the current political climate, those who voted against gay marriage and LGBTQ+ education in schools without parental consent?

My feeling is that Boris Johnson is more liberal than his predecessors. He has a little crazy streak in him and I don’t think he’ll allow LGBTQ+ rights to be rolled back — at least I hope he won’t. But let’s not forget, there are people in all parties who don’t exactly wave the rainbow flag.

You resigned from the Labour Party and criticised Jeremy Corbyn. Were you surprised by the election results? Would you consider returning under a new leader, and do you see any strong candidates emerging?

I joined the Jewish Labour Movement, so I still have a vote. Like many others, I was expecting a hung parliament — it was a bit of a wake-up call. Lisa Nandy is getting my attention as a potential leader, though.

You appeared alongside Annette Bening, Jamie Bell, Vanessa Redgrave and Julie Walters in Film Stars Don’t Die in Liverpool. Have you ever considered moving to Los Angeles? Do you feel more passionate about film or theatre?

Oh, I’ve done the LA thing! A few years ago, I gave it a go and it was… interesting. I’m glad I waited until later in life — I’m not sure the younger me would’ve coped with it, to be honest. It’s not as exciting as you’d think.

Who would you love to work with that you haven’t yet had the chance to?

There are so many wonderful people I’ve had the pleasure of working with — from Dame Judi Dench to Vanessa Redgrave. But Helen Mirren? She’d be a dream. She’s just superb.

You famously dated legendary director Danny Boyle. Are you in a relationship now?

Oh dear, Danny! It’s wonderful how well he’s done. Yes, we’re still in touch — I called him when he won the Golden Globe to congratulate him. And yes, I am in a relationship. Silence! (laughs) — They’re not in the business, but I’m happy.

Quickfire Round

City or beach break?
Oh, beach break.

Your favourite place in London?
The Tate Modern — I just love it there.

What film would you take your partner to see?
Without a doubt, Some Like It Hot — Jack Lemmon, Tony Curtis, Marilyn Monroe. It’s perfect in so many ways.

Chinese or Japanese food?
Japanese.

If you were Mayor for a day, what one thing would you change about London?
This won’t make me popular, but I don’t care — get rid of those cycle lanes! They make the roads worse.

MUSIK – Starring Frances Barber
https://www.jewishlabour.uk
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Lifestyle People

BLANKY

We are so thrilled that artist Alastair BlasterArtz has donated this out of this world statue to Annakennedyonline Art and Autism show

BLANKY

He has collaborated with 2Shades Steven Smith who has written the words and here is why.

This little bit of art might be different even out of this world.

Blanky

Art Alastair Blaster words Steven Smith

Blanky

Art Alastair Blaster words Steven Smith  

“We are all born as blank canvases; hate, racism, and a lack of understanding are learned.”
How you choose to see the world and create the tapestry of your life is up to you.
Blanky is here to “Make Earth Safe Again.”

In another universe, under a different sun, there was a planet much like Earth called Alacritas. It was a world of lush tropical forests, crystal-clear lakes, and unpolluted seas. The people of Alacritas lived in harmony, where kindness and tolerance were deeply ingrained in their way of life. Their homes were built to exist in perfect balance with nature, and even in their cities, the air remained clean and pure.

The Alacritans were far more advanced than humans. Meditation and self-healing were essential practices, and their very beings were composed of energy molecules, allowing many to heal themselves from illness. Some possessed extraordinary abilities, such as telepathy and body transformations, harnessing the sun’s rays to bring goodness to their planet and others. While there were occasional exceptions, as the saying goes, “one bad apple”—but that is another story.

You could say it was a utopia—until they arrived.

The people of Olethros came claiming peace, seeking to live in harmony with the Alacritans. But the sun did not welcome them. Almost immediately, it burned their skin a bright orange, making them stand out. Rumours spread that their own planet had been devastated by pollution, war, and slavery.

It soon became clear that the orange ones had not come as friends but as conquerors. They sought to strip Alacritas of its rich minerals, enslave its people, and channel their energy into restoring their own dying world.

The peaceful Alacritans were unprepared for battle. Their civilization, built on unity and respect, was nearly wiped out. Only a few survived—those who could transform or scatter their molecules to avoid detection.

The Olethrans ravaged the planet like ants devouring sugar. Within a year, there was nothing left. In desperation, one Alacritan, Blanky, used his powers to escape. Transforming into pure energy, he fled into the cosmos in search of help. But as he left, Alacritas could take no more. The planet exploded, sending Blanky hurtling off course.

100 Years Later

Planet Earth

London, Waterloo

Patrick was fourteen, tall for his age, and loved playing basketball. From the window of his small  ground floor apartment, he watched the other kids on the court, longing to join them. He knew he had the talent to be a star player. But his mother, protective as ever, rarely let him out alone. She feared he would be bullied or misunderstood because of his autism.

One Saturday afternoon, his mother had a friend over and asked them to watch Patrick while she ran errands in Stratford. With their eyes glued to The Real Housewives, they barely noticed Patrick, assuming he was immersed in his video game as usual.

But today was different. Quietly, Patrick put down the controller and crept toward the door. His apartment, on the ground floor, was only 200 yards from the basketball court. As he stepped outside, excitement surged through him. The sun’s rays warmed his face as he gently closed the door behind him and ran toward the court.

But then—he tripped.

As he hit the ground, something surrounded him, unlike anything he had ever seen. A strange, shifting cloud engulfed his body, sending tingles through his skin. As the mist dispersed, a small figure emerged.

Patrick couldn’t believe his eyes.

Before him stood a tiny being—completely blank, as if made of smooth, featureless clay. It pointed a stubby finger at Patrick’s baseball cap. Amused, Patrick handed it over. The moment the creature touched the fabric, the hat transformed into the same clay-like substance as its body.

Then, to Patrick’s shock, the small figure spoke.

“I am Blanky. Your planet needs me, or it may suffer the same fate as mine.”

Patrick stared, wide-eyed.

“I need sunlight to regain my strength,” Blanky continued. “With your help, I can transform and protect those who are hated and discriminated against. I have chosen you, Patrick, because you are special. For now, my body is just a canvas. Put me in your pocket, and let’s go play ball.”

Patrick didn’t hesitate. He gently scooped up Blanky and tucked him into the pocket of his jacket.

“I’ll tell you more soon,” Blanky assured him.

Patrick knew he had just made a special friend—one he would have to keep secret for now.

What neither of them realised was that Blanky had maybe arrived years too late.

An Orange One had already landed on Earth. 

Copy Right Steven Smith 

Anna Kennedy Online in Association with Firepit Art Gallery CIC 
Presents Their Inaugural

🎨

 “AUTISM & ART SHOW” 

🎨

Launching May 22nd with an Exclusive VIP Red Carpet Event

📅

 Exhibition Runs Until May 27th
“For people on the autism spectrum, art is a powerful medium that encourages self-expression.”
Anna Kennedy Online, in collaboration with the Firepit Art Gallery , is proud to present the first-ever “Autism & Art Show. “This exciting event showcases incredible artwork from autistic artists and their allies, with all profits supporting the charity Anna Kennedy Online.
Art is more than just a passion—it serves as a therapeutic outlet, offering solace and joy to many individuals on the autism spectrum. With great enthusiasm, Anna Kennedy OBE, charity patron Steven Smith, and Firepit Art Gallery founder Markus Jake invite you to celebrate and support these talented artists.

✨

 Featured Artists Include:
Annemarie Bickerton | Piluca Camino Alcon | Chris Wild | Alastair Blaster
Are you an artist on the autism spectrum or an ally who wishes to contribute? We welcome donations of artwork or a percentage of sales to support this meaningful cause. It is your chance to showcase your work at the most happening gallery in London.

📩

 To donate art or get involved, please contact:
Steven Smith – spman@btinternet.com

🎟

 Get Your VIP Night Tickets Below!
https://bit.ly/42Jo4OA
(Other exhibition dates are free to attend, but donations to the charity are greatly appreciated.)

📍

 Event Location:
Firepit Art Gallery CIC 
Firepit Gallery
No.2, Upper Riverside,
10 Cutter Ln, Ground Floor Unit,
Greenwich Peninsula London SE10 0XX

🔗

 Learn More & Support the Charity

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People

Unleash Confidence through Acting: A Women & Non-Binary Workshop

Louise Osbourne is set to conduct an ‘Act As If You‘ workshop in Birmingham and London in March to bring a fresh perspective to acting
Who knew you could perform your way into reclaiming the real you?
Louise Osbourne with a student in her class, Acting For Screen in Birmingham

Actor and acting coach, Louise Osbourne has combined the art of acting with building self-confidence into a workshop called ‘Act As If You’ specifically for women and non-binary people.

The course focuses on nurturing the inner self and gathering communication tools to thrive in personal and professional environments.

Louise seems to have cracked the code with her expertise to empower women and non-binary people to find their voice through acting and improv.

Louise said, “For 14 years I’ve been doing acting classes in Birmingham for people from 16 upwards all levels of ability and what I noticed was that men and women but definitely mainly women would come to my class not necessarily to go down the path of trying to get an agent and trying to book acting jobs and auditions, but they had lost their identity. Whether that was from marriage or children, and Birmingham is a very Asian multicultural city so a lot of it’s from marriage and not working anymore, they’d have their children or their children would be a little bit older and they’d come to my acting class, not thinking about acting but actually because they gain confidence.”

Before she came back to Birmingham in 2011 to become an acting coach, she had a blistering career in the States as an actor and worked with several award-winning actors.

During this time she noticed that some pretty big names in Hollywood were still nervous first day on the set and found it interesting.

Louise said, “I’ve worked with Catherine Zeta-Jones and Warren Beatty and Diane Keaton and Goldie Hawn and everybody’s nervous, everybody! It was mind-blowing for me because I was like, there’s no way these seasoned Oscar winning actors are nervous but everybody’s afraid they’re not gonna be believable. I think sometimes it’s almost harder for them because they’ve got to do better than their last best show, because they’ve already reached a level and your next thing has to top it or else you’re gone.”

Louise Osbourne

This helped her identify that a more holistic approach was needed to uplift one’s confidence to play any role in life.

As a founder herself and an advocate for inclusion, Louise felt called to blend her experience to help women and non-binary people become strong leaders.

Her friend, Samantha Grierson, who has contributed generously through her art to the LGBTQIA+ and neurodivergent communities in Birmingham, saw great potential in Louise’s mission to build a safe environment for women and non-binary people to express themselves freely.

She helped Louise bring her vision to life and continues to support and set up this acting workshop with her.

The primary aim of this workshop is to go beyond acting and dig deeper, let the soul’s voices dance and acknowledge the core identity. 

Louise added, “It’s not even about the acting it’s about taking the mind off the inhibitions and you can get that through playing say improv games, I’ll give them really interesting fun scenarios and I’d roll the camera, they’d have no scripts and they just have to play along. Sometimes at the beginning they’d be very quiet, let other people do the talking and then after a couple of weeks they’d find their place, find their voice and then they’d interject. And then I’d say to the rest of the class that improvisation is about giving and taking. You don’t need to fill every silence, silence is real life, let the silence be. Silence is where things brew from.”

Louise’ students in Birmingham

The last line couldn’t be more true as we all prepare in our silence to present our “best’ selves on various occasions.

It’s almost like an inner dialogue or conflict that needs to stretch out thin until our minds can finally be satisfied with a fitting approach. So much of this is caused by overthinking, social anxiety and in some cases, cultural upbringing and sexual identity as well.

Women and non-binary people have struggled to assert their voices in male dominant environments. They feel dismissed, overlooked and often forgotten. 

Louise’s workshop provides the perfect platform for participants to train their inner voice and not feel ashamed to speak up. And to become comfortable with the idea of voicing out their needs and wants to the fullest.

Louise continued, “We have had so much stuff holding us back as females and non-binary that it’s time to kind of step up and speak for ourselves. My belief is that if we all have that inner confidence that we do deserve a seat at this table and feel important from within, it won’t feel like we’re there just to tick a box.

I think that’s what we need to get our heads around, we need to make sure that we are not sitting at that table because they have promised the shareholders that they’re more inclusive. It’s like oh yeah we’ve got a non-binary, tick! We’ve got a woman, tick! But no voice? Screw that. We need to make sure that if we’ve got a place at the table that our voice is just as heard as everybody else around that board.”

Louise brings a rather powerful yet light-hearted approach to trigger a change that women and non-binary people can utilise as a launch-pad to acquire any position in our society or the corporate world.

Acting isn’t always a piece of cake but what is capitalism without a little performance? In the famous words of a TED talker I don’t remember, “You have to fake to not only make it, but become it.”

The art of performance is used to churn out versions of oneself that were suppressed, Louise intends to unwrap those gifts that reside within. 

By urging her audience to create their own compelling narrative, uniqueness comes to life with a little artistic direction, reassurance and a whole lot of fun.

Behind the scenes of Acting For Screen

Louise added, “There’s got to be a lot of laughs in my class, I want people to leave feeling confident but have fun. It’s also about using the fear, switching the fear to be excited about the story you want to tell. So you switch the fear to what you’re pitching about, what your journey is, why should I be telling this story. Why now? At the beginning of the classes I will definitely ask everybody what they want to get out of it and then work with them individually on creating a monologue that’s going to fit into their pitch about their journey. For the first half of the day it’s just going to be improv, it’s just going to be exercising, not thinking about business or anything.

In LA, I’d tell them yeah you’re a teacher, you’re the boys in the class, you’re casting for Matilda. And one of the little boys in the class nailed Matilda, he knew all the songs, he knew everything. He told me he wants to be Matilda but his dad doesn’t want him to be so and then I’ll just roll the camera and it’s really interesting because they have to act. Whether they feel that way or not they still have to go with it and take on that character. Afterwards there’s such a big sigh because it’s not who they are, it’s a different character. Sometimes I make them play two businessmen, and they both end up crying. It’s funny the stuff it brings up. They go, I can’t believe I was crying! A lot of stuff comes to the surface and then you’re way more relaxed and you get more involved in it. I think fear is something, if you switch it, it’s something that can be propelled by you.”

Louise Osbourne mentoring her students

As humans we have a tendency to overestimate the power of fear in our lives. We almost think it’s superior to us and without even trying, we admit defeat and live out our lives not knowing what could’ve been.

Acting as an art-form in general requires an individual to become friends with the chaos lingering inside. There’s a lot of emotional release; you laugh, cry, scream, howl and it almost becomes essential that you feel. 

Louise aims to purge all of these emotions out to make women and non-binary people rediscover themselves as leaders of their own lives.

The purpose of ‘Act As If You’ is to break free from the ordinary constructs of gender roles and eliminate the limiting voices that were given to them without their permission.

For more information about the workshop, go here: https://www.actasifyou.com

A glimpse into Act As If You
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Columns Culture People

Thomas Farthing

Thomas Farthing Simon Barnes pictures .


Men’s Fashion Secret Thomas Farthing 

When I had  just turned 13, my mother took me and my sister on a trip to London for the first time. What made this journey so magical, apart from the bustle and excitement of the big city, was entering the doors of Barbara Hulanicki’s Biba store. From its elegant black and gold art deco logo to its amazing layout and stunning fashions, Biba bowled me over.

The New York Dolls were performing that night in the Rainbow Rooms at the top of the shop. The food court was full of exotic delights I’d never heard of and my mum treated me to an apple strudel, with its deep apple and raisin filling sprinkled with cinamon and covered in in spiral pastry.

I got my first man bag and a trendy vest and I felt like a million dollars. I imagined I was Marc Bolan, and I counted the minutes I could escape dull Whitely Bay to live in this electric city, somewhere I felt for the first time that I truly belonged.

I did move to London and have had many adventures along the way. But there have been very few shops that gave me the buzz that Biba did all those years ago. Much as I love shopping, these days the excitement is sadly lacking, as chain stores take over our high streets with their dull product ranges and uniform window displays. Everything looks the same, although there are some exceptions, of course, such as the Harrods food hall.

But now I’ve discovered a fashion store that gives me the same thrill I experienced when I entered Biba as a teenager.

A few weeks ago, I was told that I would be modelling at the Ideal Home Christmas Show and needed to be fitted at the Thomas Farthing http://www.thomasfarthing.co.uk/ store in Museum Street, right by the British Museum. So one chilly autumn evening, fellow model Frankie Holloway and I took ourselves off to Bloomsbury.

Entering Thomas Farthing is like going back in time to a more elegant era. From the penny farthing leaning against the shop window to the classy Edwardian interior, it has a magical feel, like entering the dream kingdom of Narnia and a world away from the depressing chain store experience.

It’s packed full of delights for the stylish man and has some lovely touches, from the quirky duck decked out in a bow-tie to a set of battered luggage you imagine might have accompanied a young man about town on his grand tour of Europe in a bygone century.

Frankie and I couldn’t wait to try on their amazing and unique designs, which are hand made to the highest quality and finish.

Run by Adam Skyner and his stunning fiancee, Jenna Louise Hardy, the shop has been open for a year. Judging by the eclectic clientele, including tourists seeking the Downton Abbey look, it’s going to be a huge success.

Jenna and Adam have a skilful eye and quickly dressed Frankie in a style that I can only describe as Downton Abbey meets Al Capone – the only thing missing was the violin case! But he looked amazing and loved the style.

It was my turn next and, being a 17 1/2 inch neck and 48 inch jacket, I am always a little nervous that I’ll look like a bulky bear if I have too many layers. That’s just how I felt on our first attempt at a fantastic winter tweed suit, but Jenna quickly jumped in as she realised I needed a more tailored look. She produced the most wonderful coat and Adam grabbed a shirt that fitted like a glove. It all came together and I just loved the finished look, which was topped off with a red bowler hat.

http://www.thomasfarthing.co.uk

Adam came from Stumper & Fielding in Portobello Road and he and Jenna clearly have a passion for what they do. Jenna even showed me how to wear my waistcoat with the last button undone, the traditional way it would have been worn by an Edwardian gentleman.

Needless to say, when we modelled Thomas Farthing’s clothes at the Christmas Ideal Home Exhibition for Angel Sinclair’s Models of Diversity http://www.modelsofdiversity.org/ the outfits had the audience applauding.

The store stocks classic Irish and UK designs, Loake, McGee, Gurteen, Peregrine, Hanan Fulton, as well as their own Thomas Farthing brand. 

Jack Eyers 

http://www.thomasfarthing.co.uk

Thomas Farthing

Thomas Farthing

40 Museum St

London

WC1A 1LU

020 7831 1600
Copyright Steven R Smith 

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Culture Health and Fitness Lifestyle People

The School Bells ringing with Heidi Gammon

The queen of agony aunts is back answering your returning to school questions

https://www.counselling-foryou.co.uk/about-us

Catch Heidi on Gateway radio: https://www.gateway978.com/?s=Heidi+gammon+

Dear Heidi,  

My son has always been effeminate and neither my husband or myself have tried to change that. When he wanted to not do football and take up sewing (and he is good) we fully encouraged him. Now he is 15 he wants to return to school this term as a girl, going from David to Danielle. Heidi can I be honest, I am terrified for him and his safety.  The school say it is ok but my husband is against it. We just feel he is too young still what can we do? 

Diana, Sheffield. 

https://mermaidsuk.org.uk/helpline-support-services/


Hi Diana,

Thanks so much for your question, I think it is great you have always seen David for who he wants to be and fully supported him.  As with everything that should not change, and your love and protection is the number one thing he counts on.

David has made what might be seen to many as brave decision to start to transition into Danielle, and it can be a confusing and frightening time for Danielle and for those that love her.  But it also can be liberating and a wonderful thing for those that feel they have been born into the wrong body.

First, get some help for the family and Danielle:  https://mermaidsuk.org.uk

Mermaids is a brilliant trans charity and will be help you all.  Equally counselling with a therapist should help https://www.onetherapy.london/transgender-counselling-london/

Please make sure you keep an open conversation with Danielle, so there are no secrets. If you feel the reaction at school to Danielle is hurting her, go to the school right away. It is so important not to react negatively as you have been doing but talk to her about safety and  life moving forward.

Here is hoping it all goes well 

Love Heidi 

Heidi hi, 

My mother is a super bitch and is all about how things look. I am 17 and going to college this year and as it is a boarding college it is brilliant as I can get away from her showing off. Heidi, she thinks she is coming to see me settle in. I know it sounds like I am being unfair but all that will happen is she will come and make the whole thing about herself,  flirt with people and it will be an embarrassment.  Honestly I do not want to go if she is coming.  

Brendan, Richmond upon Thames. 

Hi Brendan, 

The narcissist mum https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/b00jm3ms

Oh, bless you,  I am sure she wants the best for you. Parents are only human too and as we grow older, we sometimes see flaws in them as in all humans. Equally it is a good idea to talk to your parents as humans. You are 17 now so maybe tell her you want to make the move in and settle in on your own. 

It may cause a row if she asks why to tell her you sometimes find her a little embarrassing.  It can go either way  but it may get mum thinking .

I feel as a parent myself you always want your child to be happy and safe, so it’s understandable that she wants to see where you are living. When you are ready, show her where you are residing and then possibly whisk her out for a mum and son lunch ! 

Good luck 🤞 

Love you Heidi and need your help,  

Having lost my virginity last year to an older boy at my school, it did not take long to realise that my preference is girls. Then in Brighton in June this gorgeous girl came on to me and that was that.  

It was only a week in when I found out she is starting work at my college this term. Now I am 18 so not jailbait, but she said it would be an issue . What do I do when I see her? I am in love. 

Kim, Worthing. 

Hi Kim,

Oh, my love I feel your pain. If she says she cannot be in a relationship, there may be strict rules against this. I think she sounds sensible and will have checked.

It is a very new relationship and if it is true love maybe in three years’ time when you leave it can be rekindled. 

But please do not be holding a torch for the whole time. My thoughts are she would be more impressed if you went on with your life, met new people and grow as a person. 

Best of luck. 

Hi Heidi. 

My boyfriend is super-hot, he plays rugby and is a Queen’s dream. The only issue is when we go out everyone flirts with him and I am invisible. The main problem is he flirts back and tells me it is just fun, that I am to get over myself and that I am his man.  But I dread going out socially, especially to gay bars.  We have been together for two years; I am a teacher and he is a doctor.  I do not want to say anything in case I sound jealous or drive him away.  

Paul,  Battersea.

Hi Paul, 

This might sound crazy, but many beautiful looking people have issues finding love and making people feel secure in a relationship with them. 

It feels like you’re being insecure and I feel for you. Sit him down tell him you’re feeling insecure and you need some reassurances. Even get some couples counselling.

Best of luck 

Categories
Columns

Heidi Gammon’s PRIDE Agony Aunt Column.

Heidi Gammon, 2Shades and Gateway Radio’s agony aunt, answers your questions this Pride month.

Dear Heidi 

I stumbled upon your column by accident. My daughter Is gay, and I have found it very hard to accept. First of all, I am catholic, and her lifestyle is not acceptable to my faith.

Trust me Heidi I love my daughter, but I am really struggling to accept her girlfriend who she has lived with for four years and won’t have her in the house. She looks like a man, and I find it embarrassing when people see her. My daughter says that they plan to have children and that breaks my heart. Now she says she won’t see me if I do not accept her life and partner. Having tried counselling already what can I do? Losing my daughter is not an option. 

Vicky, South End 

Dear Vicky 

This makes me very sad. Please be assured I have total respect for others’ beliefs. It is great you tried counselling but maybe you did not go the right one.  With all due respect, everything you are saying is homophobic. If you truly love your daughter, you will embrace her and love her as a mother should. Who cares what people think of the person who loves your daughter?  You need to respect who your daughter is.  Really, I understand your pain but it’s time to let go of that mindset. Who wants to be around someone who judges and discriminates against them, especially when it is a person that is supposed to love them? It may be an idea to try counselling as a family https://www.rainbow-project.org/family-support/

You will lose your daughter if you continue down this path.

All my best, Heidi

Dear Heidi  

Please help me, I did a terrible thing. My husband wanted to spice things up and bring another person into the bedroom. He did not want an open relationship so, with trepidation we went ahead with a guy we met online. It was fun and we saw him a few times. 

Really Heidi I thought that was it but having bumped into this guy in town, we started to see each other behind my husband’s back as he said he’s not really into him. He has asked me to go on holiday with him. Having agreed and telling my husband it is work related, now I am getting cold feet. What can I do?

Mike, Brighton 

https://www.grindr.com/blog/wild-sex-positions

https://www.grindr.com/blog/wild-sex-positions

Oh, my dear Mike, what a mess. 

Really, I am all for those who want to try different things but boundaries must be in place after a lengthy conversation. Although it’s not for me, many couples have open relationship and experiment. When you invite another person into your relationship you are opening a pandora’s box. Be careful what you wish for I say. 

It sounded like you thought you were happy. Bringing someone else in could have unearthed that your relationship may not have been what you thought. The fact you’re even thinking of going on holiday behind your husband’s back tells me things are not right. It is time to ask yourself how you see your future. Time to sit down and talk to your husband, after all he opened the box leading you to want to deceive and break the trust. Without trust there is no relationship.   Sorry if that sounds harsh.

Love Heidi 

https://www.bbc.co.uk/iplayer/episodes/b006xyhv/gimme-gimme-gimme

Dear Heidi, 

My gay brother is a hoot, but he won’t stop flirting with straight guys.Now he is flirting with my husband. Alex my husband thinks it is funny but it is annoying and embarrassing for me. Having put my foot down my brother is not speaking to me.  What can I do?

Kirsty, Essex  

You’re kidding me, Kirsty.  You’re quiet right, straight or gay, there is a limit to the flirting game and you have every right to be annoyed. It was right to share your feelings. 

It sounds like your brother is a bit of an exhibitionist and they can be fun. Exhibitionism can be a drug and you can get hooked. He needs to think of your feelings too. Trust me he will be back in touch. You sound like a great sister so just ignore him till he comes to you (and he will) . But stick to your guns when he does appear licking his wounds.

Love Heidi 

Dear Heidi 

Love the column, please can you help me?   I am so frightened to ask anyone out as my fear of rejection is so great. No-one asks me out and so my life has no one romantic in it. How can overcome my fear? 

Love 

Andy, Leeds  

Andy my love, my heart goes out to you. Ok I need you to shake yourself down. 

You can go to an lGBTQQ+ councillor https://pinktherapy.com or if you cannot afford that, the NHS offer free talking therapy sessions . I am taking it you have tried online dating; you do not have to go on GRINDER  or Facebook, and many other sites offer a softer approach to dating . Or why not join an lgbtqq+ group https://www.mesmac.co.uk/our-services/leeds/support-social-groups

Here is a selection in Leeds. It is a nice way to meet people in non-sexual way that could lead to romance. 

Happy Pride Andy, I hope love comes your way .

https://www.counselling-foryou.co.uk

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WHY WE WILL ALL SOON BE SHOUTING “RA,RA”


Ra Ra aka Raquel Reno:The birth of a Gay Icon

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐Rating: 5 out of 5

Steven Smith reviews Ra, Ra ( Raquel Reno)

Ra Ra (aka Raquel Reno) burst onto our screens when she appeared on the BBC reality TV show “Unbreakable”, alongside her formidable fiancé, Charlie Mullin OBE.  

“Unbreakable” 2022 is a reality TV show that claims to have given six celebrity couples the “ultimate test” to prove they are the perfect pair.  It’s “funny, relatable and occasionally terrifying”. Rob Beckett coaxes and cringes as six celeb couples compete to prove they’re the perfect pair.

Ra Ra’s now fiancee Charlie Mullin OBE proposed to her live on the reality TV show Unbreakable, back in October 2022. 

On “Unbreakable” most people I know fell for the bubbly, delightful Reno right away. At first glance, Mullin and Reno may seem like a chalk and cheese pairing, however the reality is that they are a great match. They certainly made for addictive viewing, and in my humble opinion, they went out of the show far too early

On one of the show dinners, Ra Ra (That’s my favourite name for Raquel because it makes her sound like the star I believe she is!) was in conversation with Lincoln Townley ( artist and husband to Loose Women Star, Denise Welch – this pair incidentally won the show), and she announced that she was a singer who had recently travelled all the way to Nashville, Tennessee to record her first album. 

Someone piped in “Go on” and RaRa promptly demonstrated her vocal talents, impressing the celebrity couples and us, the audience at home. 

However, it was an improv taste of RaRa and by no means her best performance. Raquel has a rare quality and personality wise reminds me a little of ‘Barbara Windsor meets Amanda Barrie’. 

There is something about the Cheltenham-born brunette that screams “Gay Icon” right away; she is adorable and makes you want to know more. 

There is something about the Cheltenham-born brunette that screams “Gay Icon” right away; she is adorable and makes you want to know more. 

Some months after “Unbreakable”, I was privy to her upcoming EP (due out this June). It told a different story. The songs were brilliantly catchy, her voice was incredible and she brought the sixties (my favourite era) bang back to life with a twist. 

You can just imagine  the pet shop boys calling out to work with Reno.

With the current trend of basic singers being made to sound like Divas by technology, I did wonder how Ra Ra would stand up to a live performance. Did it really matter? We had all fallen for Ra Ra anyway.

I was lucky enough to be invited to her first London concert of 2023, at the intimate and delightful QT bar at Middle Eight Hotel in Covent Garden, where everything about the venue screamed 60’s. 

I felt sure the Kray boys and Danny la Rue were going to walk in any minute. 

Ra Ra’s first EP is coming out in June. Watch this space!

Ra Ra was supported by her three backing singers and a band worthy of the London Palladium. Not being unkind, but initially I did think that this might be to cover up the fact that she is not as strong vocally. Certainly, when she came on stage you rooted for her, but nerves kicked in and the first number was not as amazing as I think the perfectionist that is Raquel would have wanted it to be. However, as she warmed up, the audience began to realise that we were looking at a real super star in the making. We were all brought to our feet in applause. Her vocal range was an unstoppable powerhouse that could bring the roof down. 

What is so endearing is how humble Ra-Ra is about her own talent.  She is a team player with her band, and she is a writer and an incredible singer, but there is something about her that says she still wonders “How did I get here?!” despite already performing in China and Dubai. It is this vulnerability that Raquel channels to her audience that will make her a huge hit amongst the LGBTQ community. She has fought to get where she is now and just like Judy, Liza and Amy, she has a story to tell, and she is not afraid to show how it feels to believe in who she is. 

Certainly, she evokes the feeling of icons like Dusty Springfield and Cilla Back, without imitating them.

Ra-Ra takes time to talk to her audience and that adds to the charm of the evening, thanking her grandmother and apologising for being a hurricane when she comes round. Her grandmother, who was staying at the Savoy Hotel for the night, almost burst with pride, “Raquel brings happiness wherever she goes”, and you really believe her. 

Raquel is worthy of the Palladium next time. 

Let’s hope she sees what we all saw tonight: a true star who still looks like she would pop the kettle on for her gran or anyone else that she met. 

If there was any criticism to a flawless show, I would say Raquel, you’re the star: get that hair out of your beautiful face, channel your inner Pricilla Presley or another 60’s icon of your choice. I cannot wait to see what you do next.

YOU CAN NOW PRE-SAVE SWEET HURRICANE – RELEASE DATE 5.7.24 https://unitedmasters.com/m/sweet-hurricane